Fire, bagpipes and masks in Gela – a special weekend from October 31 to November 2

After St. Dimitrov's Day, on October 26, winter is already approaching. According to old beliefs, from now on, the cold enters the houses, and evil forces lurk around the corner. And while some celebrate Halloween, in Gela we welcome these days in Bulgarian: with Rhodope bagpipes, outdoor cheverme, a bonfire under the stars and lots of entertainment for young and old.

From pumpkin and watermelon -> lantern

Once upon a time, when winter was near, people carved pumpkins and turned them into jack-o-lanterns to ward off darkness. To bring light into the home and ward off fears. We are reviving this ancient symbol as a bridge between the here and now and our roots.

The holiday weekend in Gela – October 31 to November 2

Art workshops with Elitsa

• For children:
  We will paint and decorate mini pumpkins and watermelons, create spooky wreaths, jar lanterns, and scary masks.
• For adults:
  Pumpkin and watermelon carving – a competition for the scariest lantern, elegant autumn wreaths made of dried flowers, rose hips, decorative zucchini, “bloody” candlesticks, cocktails and decorations that will make even the darkness look beautiful

Games and entertainment for the little ones
Ghostly treasure hunts, broomstick runs, spider web mazes, pumpkin bowling – all games are inspired by our old stories, by childhood fear and childhood laughter.

Fire in the yard
Two evenings of stories in front of the flames, the sound of bagpipes, songs and toasts under the stars. They are a bridge to the time before the hours, when night and winter were not scary, but a space for coming together.

Food and nature
We will enjoy traditional cheverme, fresh mountain air and autumn colors.

🌙 Masks are not mandatory, but are highly recommended for a good mood.

📅 Dates: October 31 – November 2
📧 For reservations and information: reservations@hotelgela.com

Let us chase away evil and darkness together, with light, music, and laughter.
Because where there is fire and song, darkness cannot hold our heart.